lineman

noun

line·​man ˈlīn-mən 

1

: one who sets up or repairs electric wire communication or power lines

called also linesman

2

: a player in the forward line of a team

specifically : a football player in the line

Examples of lineman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The team announced after Monday’s practice that Tyler Smith, its best offensive lineman and arguably the top offensive guard in the game, will be out four to six weeks after needing left thumb surgery to repair damaged ligaments. — Zak Keefer, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

Defensive lineman Aaron Donald will not travel with the Rams to Melbourne to play in their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, coach Sean McVay said Tuesday. — Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026

In an ideal world, all five of the Dolphins’ starting offensive linemen will stay healthy and produce a forceful rushing attack, one the offense can lean on all season. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 8 Sep. 2026

Up front, the Tigers are led by senior offensive lineman Alexander Vigil, a preseason second team All-SWAC selection and one of the Tigers’ most experienced linemen, with over 600 snaps last season. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lineman

• linemen
• steinmann

Kids Definition

lineman

noun

line·​man ˈlīn-mən 

1

: one who sets up or repairs power or telephone lines

2

: a football player whose position is on the line of scrimmage